Hiya folks, i have a question about shooting +P ammo in my 640-2. it is claimed that the -2 model is built on the J frame magnum chassis,but my weapon looks just like the 640 no dash.i am kind of stumped on this situation, because all the pics of 640-2's look like the 640-1's w/the 2 1/8'' bbl. mine has the 1 7/8'' bbl.if it is built on the magnum frame,i wouldnt have any worries about +P ammo, but i have never seen the 2 different weapons side by side and i have no idea what frame this is. i will attach a photo to show what i mean. thank you in advance for any info you might be able to give me. (btw, this is a 640-2,its stamped on the crane & on box)

Attached Images

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Your gun has a front sight similar to a no-dash, but the same J-Magnum frame as the -1 which was designed for the .357 Magnum. To tell the difference between the old frame and the J-Magnum look at the cylinder stop. On the J-Mag it's an integral boss that's machined as part of frame. On the old style frame it was a little round replaceable stud that was press fitted into a hole in the frame. Once you see the two side by side it's obvious.

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~ S&W aficionado in training ~

Further info would help. Is it chambered for .357 or just .38? What are the first 3-4 digits or letters of the serial number? These would help to establish a time frame.

I have a 640 .38 with no 'dash number.' I know little about dash numbers. I only know how to carry and shoot J-frames. My 640 is a tough little chickenplucker that eats up +P loads. But please give us more info, anyway. Thanks.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

The 640-2 was reported made as an NYPD backup gun, and I have seen one that came from a department armorer so I tend to believe the story. Definitely good to go with any +P .38.

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Alan
SWCA LM 2023, SWHF 220

CCE8XXX, firearm was built on sept. 27 1997, its a 38 special only gun. hope this helps.

Yes, yours is built on the magnum frame.

I have no problem shooting any modern factory +P ammo in any all steel J-frame from any S&W era.

I have one just like it. I have shot plenty of 38 Special +P through it with no issues.

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On the Oak Savannah

I have a 640 NYPD authorized. Nothing but +P's used. They will take all the plus P's you want. Your hand might not like it but don't worry about your 640.

Don't hide your feelings, Hap. Let it all hang out. Let us know what you really think.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

P.S. Check PM

I have a couple of 640-2s. The shipping boxes both say NYPD on the label, and -- although chambered for .38Spl the cylinders and barrels are slightly longer than the standard 640's (which I also have). This supports the idea that the "-2" was built on the .357 Mag frame but chambered for .38Spl. Fired quite a bit of Speer .38+P GHDP, which was practically custom made for .38 snubbies with no problem. That round is obviously a little hotter, but no problem in the 340-2 (certainly nowhere as brutal as when fired through the lightweight 342PD, which will really wake you up).

I have 2 of those old 640 at Teddy Jacobson shop right now. One from early 90's and one from 93 with the doted serial number the one I think the year it was made was 1990 says tested for Plus P Plus inside the frame. The one from 1993 does not but I no this for a fact I know 2 cops retired now from Rodman's neck NYPD gunsmithing shack (Ronny and Steve) both said even if it does not say Plus P Plus or Plus P on 640 1 7/8 BBL no matter what year there rated for Plus P Ammo. Also NYPD uses Gold Dot 135g short BBL 38 SPL Plus P use to I think there not going to allow Rev for off duty even if your grandfathered in that sucks good luck